Once We Were Four 
A Celebration of Life, Loss and the Healing Power of Love
In Once, We Were Four, award-winning writer and performer Susan Poulin weaves together poignant vignettes reflecting on her family’s journey through sorrow and resilience. With a deft blend of humor and honesty, she chronicles the profound impact of her mother’s battle with cancer and father’s decline with dementia. This heartfelt memoir captures the essence of love amidst loss, inviting audiences to share in a rollercoaster of emotions—from laughter to tears and back again. Susan’s relatable storytelling illuminates the complexities of family bonds and the healing power of connection. Through her performance, she creates a safe space for reflection and dialogue about life, grief, and hope, ensuring that no one navigates their struggles alone.
Once We Were Four is a surprisingly funny portrayal of a loving and slightly quirky American family facing loss and grief. I loved every minute. In addition to being a heartwarming performance, Susan Poulin creates a safe space for others to feel and talk about their own experiences with cancer, dementia, death and dying.
Beth Boynton, RN, MS, CP Consultant & Author
In Once We Were Four Susan Poulin paints a loving picture of her close-knit family’s journey through growth and grief. You’ll cry and you’ll laugh.
Peg & Rich Aaronian, Exeter, NH
This show hits the perfect note between humor and tenderness!
Liz Korabek-Emmerson MFA, Mindfulness Teacher
Compelling, effective and important, Susan’s performance aids in facing our own mortality with humor and compassion.
Angelynne Henson, Vocal Habilitation Specialist
Very few people can be personal, profound AND entertaining. Susan Poulin is one of them.
Christopher Schario, former Executive Director The Public Theatre, Lewiston, ME